CHALLENGE: I need a stable, solid, vertically oriented mount for my macro kit: namely an automated focus rail, modest DSLR, a couple of infinity corrected microscope objectives mounted to camera lenses. For now, just 4x and 10x, but possibly 20x at some future point. I use electronic flash with briefest possible pulse.
I have investigated various options: heavy duty copy stands, vertically mounted aluminum optical rail, vertically mounted optical post mounted on an aluminum breadboard, a sort of tombstone made from aluminum breadboards and other optomechanical parts, stereo microscope stands, etc...
Thus far, the most effective (cost-benefit) solution would seem to be a used, heavy duty stereo microscope stand with a vertical pole of 1.5 inch diameter. The general idea is to attach arca compatible clamps to the pole by means of "rod clamps". In this way, I expect my macro kit, and positioners, can be mounted solidly to the stand's pole, in the desired vertical orientation.
photo' source
My questions, regarding this stereo microscope stand solution, are:
1. Overall, ¿does this stereo microscope stand solution sound plausibly adequate for stated needs?
2. In terms of vibration, ¿how would one reasonably expect this stereo microscope stand option to typically compare to a vertically mounted 66mm aluminum optical rail option? Given that both options are in equally optimum condition, sorothane feet, and so on.
3. ¿what features should I look for, in order for a stereo microscope stand to be adequate for above stated end use?
4. ¿what stereo microscope stand considerations have I missed?
5. ¿can you think of any other cost effective alternatives I have missed?
Your considered opinions and collective insight are greatly appreciated!
More than necesary for 20x, with bright continuous light? Adequate for 50x? I would hate to come up short at some future point, so prefer to error on the side of less prone to vibration. But again the need to control costs is always present.
